Ben Sira 34:8-18

8 Without such deceptions the law will be fulfilled, and wisdom is made perfect in truthful lips.
9 An educated man knows many things, and one with much experience will speak with understanding.
10 He that is inexperienced knows few things, but he that has traveled acquires much cleverness.
11 I have seen many things in my travels, and I understand more than I can express.
12 I have often been in danger of death, but have escaped because of these experiences.
13 The spirit of those who fear the Lord will live, for their hope is in him who saves them.
14 He who fears the Lord will not be timid, nor play the coward, for he is his hope.
15 Blessed is the soul of the man who fears the Lord! To whom does he look? And who is his support?
16 The eyes of the Lord are upon those who love him, a mighty protection and strong support, a shelter from the hot wind and a shade from noonday sun, a guard against stumbling and a defense against falling.
17 He lifts up the soul and gives light to the eyes; he grants healing, life, and blessing.
18 If one sacrifices from what has been wrongfully obtained, the offering is blemished; the gifts of the lawless are not acceptable.
Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1952 [2nd edition, 1971] by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.